SHAFAQNA -Â Over 12,000 pilgrims from Russia will leave for the Hajj (an annual Islamic pilgrimage) to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia this year, Russia’s Hajj Mission head Mahomed Gamzayev told Shafaqna on Tuesday.

“This year we have 12,000 visitors from the established quota [16,400 worshippers from Russia],” Gamzayev said.

According to the Council of Russian Muftis, the decreased number of pilgrims is linked with high dollar rate, which makes the trip more expensive.

The cost of the Hajj pilgrimage for Russians varies between $3,000 and $8,500.

Annual pilgrimage to the holy places for Muslims in Mecca and Madina is timed for Eid-Al-Adha, also known as the Feast of the Sacrifice. It is marked on September 23.

Adult Muslims are required to complete the hajj pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime.